A MAN has been jailed for robbing two women in Croydon at gunpoint with an imitation firearm.
Benjamin Omoregie, 23, followed an 18-year-old from Norbury train station at 11.20pm on June 15.
When she reached Isham Road he pointed a gun at her and demanded money, bank cards and her PINs.
He told her not to report the robbery to police and to cancel her bank cards the following day.
Minutes later he threatened a second woman, this time at a bus stop in Wide Way, Mitcham.
Omoregie, of Middle Road, Streatham, told the 34-year-old he had a gun but did not show her the weapon.
The victim, who feared for her life, handed over her cards, phone and PINs.
Omoregie used her card to withdraw money at a cash point nearby in Northborough Road.
Police officers then arrived at the scene after being called by the 18-year-old and were looking for Omoregie when the 34-year-old flagged down a police car and explained that she too had been robbed.
Officers searched the area until they noticed a man matching Omoregie's description. They stopped him in Beckway Road and found him in possession of a small handgun.
He was arrested and charged the following day with robbery and possession of an imitation firearm.
Forensic officers confirmed that the gun they had recovered was made of plastic.
They also found a video on Omoregie's phone with instructions on how to spray paint a toy gun.
Omoregie pleaded guilty and was sentenced to four years in prison at Croydon Crown Court on Wednesday (August 27).
Detective Constable David Thompson said: "Omeregie terrified two innocent women and made them fear for their lives.
"I hope he takes time behind bars to reflect on what he did that night.
"This incident also highlights the remarkable acts of professionalism and bravery of patrolling officers who tackle potentially armed and dangerous criminals."
